Mid 20th Century Utsutsugawa Bowl With Riverside Decoration

Utsutsugawa ware, originating in the Nabeshima domain, Nagasaki Prefecture, has a storied history dating back to 1691 when it was established by Soetsu Tanaka and his son Jinnai. Drawing influence from the kilns of Hirado Karatsu, such as Kihara and Enaga, Utsutsugawa ware distinguishes itself with finer brushes, thin walls, and a refined appearance. In the Meiji era, the 12th-generation head revitalized the craft, earning it the moniker “The Ninsei of the west.” Despite a hiatus, Utsutsugawa ware resurfaced in 1784 as Yagami ware, persisting through multiple revivals. In the 1930s, Yokoishi Gagyu revived the style in Sasebo city, and today, Gagyu XV continues the tradition at Gagyu pottery. Characterized by its russet colour, high iron content, and intricate brush strokes, Utsutsugawa ware remains a revered ceramic art form in Nagasaki Prefecture.

This rare confectionary dish is decorated with a painted riverside reeds pattern. The deep, rich chocolate colour of the clay is accentuated as the glaze catches the light.